Metrology History and Key Facts 

Metrology History

The history of metrology dates to ancient civilizations where the need for precise measurements was crucial for daily activities such as construction, agriculture, and trade. The first standardized system of measurement was developed by the Egyptians, who developed the basic unit of measurement known as a cubit based on arm length. The Greeks later introduced the concept of the measurement of weight, using units such as the mina, which was roughly the equivalent of a pound.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, scientific progress and technological advancements brought about the need for a standardized system of measurement. The French Revolution of 1789 provided the impetus for the development of the metric system, which was designed to be universal and based on natural standards rather than body parts. The meter was defined as one ten-millionth of the distance from the equator to the North Pole, while the kilogram was defined as the mass of a liter of water at its maximum density.

Today, metrology plays a critical role in modern science and technology, ranging from the measurement of atomic particles to the precise dimensions of industrial products. Metrology labs play a crucial role in ensuring the accuracy and reliability of measurements in trade, health, safety, and environment.

Key Metrology Lab Facts:

  • Metrology is the science of measurement, and metrology labs help ensure that measurements are accurate, consistent, and reliable across various industries.
  • Metrology labs establish and maintain measurement standards, which are essential for consistent, accurate measurements in scientific research, manufacturing, and trade.
  • Metrology labs use state-of-the-art instruments and tools to perform calibration services and ensure the accuracy of measuring equipment.
  • Metrology labs can be classified into various categories based on the type of measurements they focus on including dimensional metrology, electrical metrology, and temperature metrology.
  • Many metrology labs are accredited by national or international organizations, such as National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in the United States or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), which establishes their credibility and expertise in the field.
  • Metrology labs play a vital role in maintaining the quality and safety of products, ensuring that manufacturing processes and products meet defined tolerances and standards.
  • Metrology labs support research and development by providing accurate and precise measurements, which are essential for scientific progress.
  • Metrology labs work closely with industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and telecommunications to establish industry-specific measurement standards and practices.
  • Many metrology labs offer training programs and workshops for engineers, technicians, and scientists to increase their understanding of measurement principles and techniques.
  • The expertise and services provided by metrology labs contribute significantly to technological advancements, increased productivity, and economic growth.
  • Manufacturing metrology objectives include:
    • ascertaining that newly manufactured components are comprehensively evaluated and designed in accordance with design specifications.
    • ensuring vital measurement uniformity.
    • studying and achieving better component tolerances.
    • providing cost-effective inspection and optimal use of resources.
  • The five basic elements of metrology are:
    • quantities and units
    • measurement
    • devices for measurement
    • properties of measuring devices
    • measurement standards
  • Typical equipment in a metrology lab includes:
    • Coordinate Measuring Machines (CMM) used to check various dimensions of manufactured parts in a streamlined and automated process. The primary use of CMM is to give a precise measurement of the distance between two points located on a 3-D object.
    • Surface Roughness Machines are used to quickly and accurately determine the surface texture or roughness of a material. These machines show the measured roughness depth (Rz) as well as the mean roughness value (Ra) in micrometers or microns.
    • Vision Measuring Machines are used to perform inspection tasks where the position, orientation, or dimension of a feature is measured.
    • Atomic Force Microscopes (AFM) scans objects at a resolution on the order of sub nanometer. The AFM consists of a cantilever with a sharp tip used to scan the surface of a sample.
    • Metallographic Equipment is designed to minimize damage or remove both surface and subsurface damage to a metallographic specimen’s microstructure. Metallographic abrasive saws are designed to cut at lower speeds to minimize microstructural damage.
  • Direct Digital Controls (DDC) are especially important for metrology laboratories where accurate and consistent measurements are essential for calibration and quality assurance processes. DDC provide precise control and monitoring of parameters such as temperature, humidity, and pressure. By implementing DDC systems, metrology labs can maintain stable conditions, minimize measurement errors, improve repeatability of results, and ensure compliance with industry standards and guidelines.